In the journey of life and career, we often find ourselves caught in the tides of competition. Interestingly, in recent times, I’ve observed a shift in the nature of these competitive forces. It’s no longer just the external rivals that pose a challenge; it’s the internal competition that’s becoming more prominent. And here’s why that’s not just okay, but potentially great.
1. A Mirror to Our Potential
Firstly, internal competition is like a mirror reflecting our true potential. It’s an opportunity to engage with the diverse talents within our organization or community. This competition isn’t about outdoing each other, but about learning from one another. When we see a colleague excel, it’s a call to explore our capabilities and push our limits. It’s a reminder that we too have untapped potential waiting to be realized.
2. Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Embracing internal competition helps in cultivating a growth mindset. It teaches us that skills and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. When we compete with those around us, we’re motivated to learn more, practice more, and grow. This mindset is invaluable, not just in our current roles but throughout our lives.
3. Fostering Innovation and Creativity
Internal competition can be a powerful driver for innovation and creativity. When we strive to be better than we were yesterday, we’re forced to think outside the box. We look for new solutions, experiment with different approaches, and in the process, we contribute to a culture of innovation.
4. Building Stronger Relationships
Contrary to popular belief, healthy internal competition can actually strengthen relationships. It builds a sense of camaraderie, as we all work towards individual and collective improvement. It’s about lifting each other up, not pulling each other down.
5. Preparing for the Future
The challenges we face internally are often indicative of the challenges in the wider world. By engaging in internal competition, we’re essentially preparing ourselves for external challenges. It’s a safe training ground to develop the resilience and skills needed to navigate the external business landscape.
Conclusion
So, to those who, like me, find themselves facing more internal competition, let’s embrace it. This isn’t a setback; it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to grow, to innovate, and to forge stronger bonds with our peers. It’s a chance to prepare ourselves for whatever lies ahead, armed with a better version of ourselves.
Remember, the most rewarding competition is the one against our own yesterday. Let’s make today count.
Atsushi's Life in Korea 